Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy garlic aioli recipe is not only quick to make but also incredibly versatile. The combination of garlic, lemon, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise creates a creamy and tangy flavor profile that enhances a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re using it as a dip for fries, a topping for burgers, or even as a spread for sandwiches, it adds a fresh and vibrant touch to every bite. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and requires no cooking!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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5 cloves garlic, finely grated, minced, or pressed
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1 to 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 1 small lemon)
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1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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3/4 cup mayonnaise
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Kosher salt (to taste)
Directions
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Stir 5 finely grated garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard together in a small bowl until well combined.
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Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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After 15 minutes, whisk in 3/4 cup mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
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Taste the aioli and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more kosher salt or up to an additional tablespoon of lemon juice for extra tang.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 12
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Prep Time: 8 minutes
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Resting Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 23 minutes
Variations
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Garlic-Free Aioli: If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can substitute roasted garlic or even fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a different flavor profile.
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Vegan Aioli: Swap out the mayonnaise for a plant-based version, such as vegan mayo or cashew cream, to make it vegan-friendly.
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Spicy Aioli: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the aioli.
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Herbed Aioli: Incorporate fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or rosemary for an added twist.
Storage/Reheating
Garlic aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the aioli thickens after refrigeration, simply stir it well before using. This aioli is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need for reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought mayonnaise for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought mayonnaise works perfectly for this garlic aioli recipe. However, if you want a more homemade taste, you can use homemade mayonnaise instead.
2. How can I make the aioli spicier?
To make your aioli spicier, simply add a pinch of cayenne pepper, some red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
3. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is best for a more vibrant and robust flavor, but you can substitute garlic powder if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the 5 cloves of garlic.
4. How long can I store garlic aioli in the fridge?
Garlic aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal flavor.
5. Can I use this aioli as a dip for vegetables?
Yes! This aioli makes a great dip for vegetables, especially crunchy ones like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
6. Can I freeze garlic aioli?
It is not recommended to freeze garlic aioli as mayonnaise can separate when thawed. It’s best to make and store it fresh.
7. How can I adjust the acidity in the aioli?
If you want to reduce the acidity, use less lemon juice and adjust to taste. You can also balance it out with a little bit of sugar or honey for a sweeter aioli.
8. What can I pair garlic aioli with?
Garlic aioli is a perfect match for fries, burgers, sandwiches, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even as a spread for wraps.
9. Can I make this aioli ahead of time?
Yes, garlic aioli can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great option for meal prep.
10. Is this aioli gluten-free?
Yes, this aioli is naturally gluten-free, as all the ingredients are gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check the mayonnaise you’re using to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Conclusion
This easy garlic aioli recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold and creamy condiments. It’s quick, versatile, and adds a flavorful punch to almost any dish. With its tangy, garlicky taste, it will elevate your meals, making them even more delicious. Whether you serve it as a dip, a spread, or a topping, this aioli is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Easy Garlic Aioli Recipe
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A creamy, flavorful garlic aioli that brings a garlicky zing to dishes. It’s quick to make and versatile for use as a dip, spread, or topping.
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients
5 cloves garlic, finely grated, minced, or pressed
1 to 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 1 small lemon)
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3/4 cup mayonnaise
Kosher salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Stir 5 finely grated garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard together in a small bowl until well combined.
- Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- After 15 minutes, whisk in 3/4 cup mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the aioli and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more kosher salt or up to an additional tablespoon of lemon juice for extra tang.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
Notes
- This aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- If the aioli thickens after refrigeration, simply stir it well before using.
- This aioli is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg